A ground-breaking ceremony has been held to mark the start of construction on new and improved infrastructure for the Royal Engineers at Marne Barracks in Catterick.
The project, which is being delivered for the Army under the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio, will prepare the barracks for the relocation of 21 Engineer Regiment from Claro Barracks, Ripon from 2027.
The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) contracted Morgan Sindall to deliver the works, which include 205 new and refurbished Single Living Accommodation bedspaces for Junior Ranks and Officers. A workshop will be built for the Light Aid Detachment, which recovers, repairs and maintains the unit’s equipment. Garaging, sports and storage facilities will be provided, and five buildings will be refurbished.
The ground-breaking marked the start of construction on the first building, with the entire project scheduled to complete by the end of 2027.
Belinda Lunn, DEO Army Programme Director, said
I am delighted that the Marne Barracks project has reached this significant milestone with construction activity starting on site. This project demonstrates how investment in modern, high-quality infrastructure is supporting military capability, delivering benefits for Army personnel and improving the Defence estate.
Warren Webster, DIO’s Head of Major Programmes and Projects – Army, said
This is a major project, and one of the first moving into construction under the Defence Estate Optimisation Strategic Alliance. It’s therefore great to see work getting underway to provide fantastic new accommodation, sports facilities and more for the British Army, ready for 21 Engineer Regiment’s arrival in 2027.
Simon Arnott, Morgan Sindall’s Managing Director – North, said
Morgan Sindall has always been steadfast in its support for the armed forces, those currently serving and those who have served to protect our country. As an Armed Forces Covenant signatory, we are proud to use our expertise to deliver facilities that meet the highest standards for 21 Engineer Regiment.
Throughout construction, Morgan Sindall is delivering a comprehensive social value programme, including creating pathways into construction careers with the team facilitating four work starters, 20 apprenticeship and T-Level placements, 40 work placement days, and regular engagement with local schoolchildren.
Once vacated, Ripon Barracks – the collective name given to Claro Barracks, Deverell Barracks and Laver Banks – will be redeveloped into housing, under plans announced by Homes England and the Ministry of Defence in 2025. In total 1,300 new homes are planned and will be delivered in phases, with initial work beginning at the vacant Deverell Barracks site. The remaining areas – Claro Barracks, Laver Banks, and the Engineering Park – will be developed following the scheduled departure of the 21 Engineer Regiment to Catterick Garrison.
